Ghosts of Mississippi

Rob Reiner's well-intentioned drama is based on the compelling true story of how the killer of Civil Rights activist Medgar Evers was finally brought to justice after 30 years. Alec Baldwin stars as conflicted Assistant District Attorney Bobby DeLaughter, who reluctantly agrees to reopen the notorious case. A subdued Whoopi Goldberg gives a dignified dramatic performance as Evers' crusading widow. It's a noble effort and a prestige film all the way, and you can tell its creators had their eyes on the prize: the Academy Award. But only James Woods, as virulent racist Byron De La Beckwith, received a nomination. Optional. (K. Lee Benson)